Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha stated that Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) is at the forefront of implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, ushering in a transformative era in education and culture. He made these remarks during the inauguration of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA) Regional Centre in Jammu.
Revolution in Education Sector
LG Sinha highlighted the remarkable progress in J&K’s education sector, noting, “Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, J&K has become a pioneer in NEP 2020 implementation.” He praised the ongoing cultural resurgence and emphasized nurturing creativity among youth to benefit various sectors.
Promoting Culture and Artistic Heritage
Sinha underscored the value of J&K’s folk traditions and artistic heritage. He expressed confidence that the IGNCA Regional Centre would play a vital role in preserving and promoting regional culture.
“The IGNCA will foster the promotion and preservation of our rich art and cultural heritage, enhancing the quality of life through traditional wisdom and knowledge,” he said.
He urged intellectuals to collaborate with organizations like IGNCA to propagate the region’s artistic heritage and preserve the Vedic oral tradition.
Strengthening Folk Traditions
Sinha stressed the importance of spreading the works of great thinkers and writers, including Yogini Lalleshwari, Nund Rishi, and Habba Khatoon, among the younger generation.
“Our civilisational heritage is rooted in ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the concept of the world as one family. This philosophy remains relevant globally even today,” he remarked.
He further called for efforts to ensure regional literature, folk music, and Pahari art become household staples.
Encouraging Grassroots Innovation
The LG commended IGNCA and the J&K Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) for organizing Toycathon 2024, which encourages young innovators to design toys reflecting local culture and heroism.
Celebrating Achievements and Innovations
On the occasion, LG Sinha felicitated students who excelled in District and School-level Toycathon competitions. He also released several IGNCA publications and visited exhibits showcasing innovative toy designs and clay models by students and artists from various states.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was graced by Minister for School and Higher Education Sakina Ittoo, Member Secretary IGNCA Sachidanand Joshi, Principal Secretary Culture and School Education Suresh Kumar Gupta, and Commissioner Secretary Higher Education Rashmi Singh. Senior officials, Vice Chancellors, and heads of educational institutions also attended.
